How to Apply for Paid Military Service in Turkey: The Complete Guide

Navigating military obligations can feel overwhelming, especially when rumors and outdated information circulate online. Whether you are a working professional, a university student, or someone returning from deferred status, the application process for paid military service (bedelli askerlik) follows a defined administrative path once you understand the core mechanics.

Here is everything you need to know to complete your application smoothly, without unexpected surprises.

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Available Application Channels

The Ministry of National Defense provides three official channels for submitting your application:

• e-Devlet (The Digital Government Gateway): The fastest and most convenient method for most citizens residing in Turkey.
• Military Recruitment Offices (Askerlik Şubesi): Local military branches located across every province.
• Consulates and Embassies: For Turkish citizens living and working abroad.

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Step-by-Step Application via e-Devlet

Starting online saves substantial time and ensures your payment documents generate correctly. Follow these steps:

1. Log In to e-Devlet

Head over to turkiye.gov.tr and log in using your T.C. identity number and e-Devlet password. If you do not have a password yet, you can pick one up in person at any PTT branch for a nominal fee.

2. Search for the Service

Type “bedelli” into the search bar at the top of the portal and select “ASAL Bedelli Askerlik Başvurusu” from the results.

3. Review Terms and Approve

Carefully read through the requirements and terms displayed on screen. Once you confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria, click Accept / Confirm (Kabul Et).

4. Print Your Barcoded Payment Document

The portal will produce a Barcoded Payment Document (Barkodlu Ödeme Belgesi). Make sure to print out a physical copy, as banks require this exact document with its tracking barcode to process your transaction.

5. Pay the Fee at an Authorized Bank

Take your printed barcode slip directly to one of the authorized state lenders:

• T.C. Ziraat Bankası
• Türkiye Halk Bankası
• Türkiye Vakıflar Bankası
• PTTBank

Important Note: Do not attempt to send this payment via a standard EFT or wire transfer from an external mobile banking app. The payment must be processed over the counter against your barcoded document. Request three original, stamped receipt copies (dekont) from the teller before leaving the bank.

6. Visit Your Nearest Military Recruitment Office (Askerlik Şubesi)

Take your bank receipts along with your printed barcode document to the recruitment branch. You are free to visit any military branch across the country; you do not need to travel back to your registered hometown.

Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning. When doors open around 8:30 AM, staff hand out an intake form. Your queue number is generally determined by how quickly you fill out and return this form. Getting there a few minutes before opening hours will save you hours of waiting.

7. Hand in Your Paperwork and Collect Your Certificate

Hand your verified receipts and barcoded slip to the military officer. Once processed in the system, you will receive your Paid Military Service Certificate (Bedelli Askerlik Hizmet Belgesi). Keep this document safe for your personal records.

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Common Questions Answered

Do I pay the fee first or apply first?

You must apply on e-Devlet first. The bank cannot process your payment without the unique barcoded document generated by your online application.

Can I complete the entire process online without visiting an office?

While initial applications and call-up notifications take place online, you must present your official payment receipts and identity documents to a local recruitment office or consulate to finalize enlistment records.

Where takes place the mandatory basic training?

Paid military service includes a short basic training cycle carried out at designated training regiments and brigades across the country, which typically include:

• 58th Infantry Training Regiment (Burdur)
• 5th Infantry Training Brigade (Sivas)
• 1st Infantry Training Brigade (Manisa)
• 3rd Infantry Training Brigade (Antalya)
• 48th Infantry Training Regiment (Tokat)
• 15th Infantry Training Brigade (Amasya)
• 59th Artillery Training Brigade (Erzincan)
• 116th Gendarmerie Training Regiment (Çanakkale)
• 9th Gendarmerie Training Regiment (Bilecik)
• 10th Gendarmerie Training Regiment (Bornova, İzmir)

How are call-up periods determined?

Your specific induction period (celp dönemi) and assignment unit are assigned centrally by the Ministry of National Defense based on overall annual quotas and institutional capacity. Keep an eye on your e-Devlet dashboard regularly for official dispatch announcements.